Overview
Go West Camps is seeking a passionate, creative and experienced Trip and Travel Program Director to join our year-round team and lead our teen trip and travel program. Go West Camps is a summer day camp located in Colorado Springs known for providing youth with a summer of fun. Our commitment to relationship building, skill development and adventure is what makes us unique. We are looking to add an overnight component to our day camp programming for middle schoolers and teens.
As the Year Round Trip and Travel Program Director, you will be responsible for creating and overseeing an exciting trip and travel program designed to provide middle schoolers and teens with unforgettable outdoor experiences. This program will include one-week overnight experiences combining adventure, education, skill building and personal growth for our middle school aged participants, as well as two-week long overnight trips that will focus on specific core camp activities for high school aged campers. We are looking for someone who has creativity and experience building new programs that develop leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop, plan, and execute a trip and travel program for middle schoolers and teens that features our core activities; biking, hiking, paddling and outdoor leadership.
Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants during trips and activities.
Collaborate with the camp leadership team to integrate the trip and travel program with the overall camp experience.
Build and maintain relationships with local partners, vendors, and organizations to enhance program offerings.
Oversee the recruitment, training, and supervision of program staff.
Obtain necessary land use permits, licenses, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations including American Camp Association Accreditation.
Continuously evaluate and improve the program to meet the evolving needs and interests of campers.
Provide exceptional communication to parents and campers, addressing any inquiries or concerns promptly.
Spend 9 weeks of the summer in the field working with kids and managing staff.
Required Skills:
Ability to work with youth and staff for extended days and overnights while engaging in our core programs of biking, hiking, and paddling.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Enthusiasm for working with youth and creating meaningful outdoor experiences.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances.
Preferred Skills:
Bachelor's degree in outdoor education, recreation, or a related field.
Proven experience in designing and implementing adventure-based programs for youth.
Experience with land use permitting and licensing processes.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements for outdoor adventure programs.
Current certifications in relevant outdoor activities (e.g., American Mountain Guide Association, American Canoe Association, Bicycle Instructor Certification, Wilderness First Responder).
About Go West Camps
GO WEST CAMPS, Colorado Springs’ premier Summer Day Camp is hiring staff for summer 2024.
Working at Go West Camps isn’t just a summer job…it’s a way of life. While at camp you’ll experience lots of fun and adventurous activities, but it is the community of understanding, friendship and encouragement that keeps campers and staff coming back year after year.
